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Cat treats: how to choose the right reward for your cat’s habits

A treat can reward good behaviour, add structure to a play session or simply create a little ritual with your cat. But not all cat treats are created equal, and they do not meet the same needs. A crunchy bite works well for repeated rewards, while a liquid texture can add variety to meals or tempt a fussy cat.

Before filling your basket with cat snacks, take the time to check the ingredients, recommended age and suggested daily quantity. This will help you avoid choosing based solely on attractive packaging or a rather vague marketing promise.

Common pitfalls when choosing treats

1. Confusing complementary treats with complete food

Cat rewards are generally complementary foods. They therefore do not replace the main diet. Even when they contain vitamins, taurine or minerals, they should remain only a small part of your cat’s daily food intake.

2. Relying solely on the flavour name

A product described as ‘chicken’ or ‘salmon’ does not necessarily mean that the featured ingredient makes up most of the recipe. Check the ingredients list and the percentage stated. Some Catisfactions products, for example, contain 4% chicken or salmon, while MjAMjAM treats declare a significantly higher proportion of meat, depending on the recipe.

3. Forgetting about calories and portion sizes

A small reward given several times a day can quickly unbalance your cat’s diet. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be adjusted according to your cat’s weight, activity level and usual daily ration. For a neutered, sedentary cat or one that gains weight easily, low-calorie cat treats will be easier to include — provided you keep an eye on quantities.

What to check on the packaging

A clear composition suited to your priorities

When comparing chicken cat treats, salmon cat treats or a meat-based recipe, check:

  • the order of the ingredients, listed by weight;
  • the percentage of the featured ingredient;
  • whether the product contains cereals, added sugars or technological additives;
  • the analytical constituents: protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture.

Grain-free cat treats may appeal to owners who wish to avoid certain sources of starch. However, the words ‘grain-free’ are not enough to assess the recipe as a whole. It must also suit your cat’s preferences and digestive tolerance.

The right texture for the occasion

  • Crunchy with a soft centre: ideal for training and small rewards.
  • Soft: a good choice for cats that do not like chewing for long.
  • Liquid or paste: liquid cat treats, such as lickable cat treats in sticks, can be given directly or mixed with food.
  • Very moist: useful for adding a little variety to your cat’s daily routine, while remembering to leave fresh water available.

After opening, follow the storage instructions. Liquid products generally need to be kept in the fridge and consumed quickly. Dry formats should be stored in a tightly sealed bag, away from heat and moisture.

Age and feeding recommendations

Some products are intended for adult cats only, while others can be given to kittens from a specific age. Kitten treats should therefore not be chosen solely because of their small size: check the minimum age stated on the packaging. The Catisfactions salmon treats featured here are suitable for cats and kittens from 2 months old, while the chicken version is intended for adult cats.

Our selection for different uses

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
CATISFACTIONS Chicken Treats For Cats And Kittens - 60g

Catisfactions chicken treats for cats and kittens – 60 g

Why this choice suits this profile : The small pack is a good way to try crunchy chicken treats without immediately buying a large bag. The soft-centred texture is perfect for occasional rewards.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly state that this is a complementary food and give a serving limit for adult cats. However, bear in mind that the recipe contains cereals and around 4% chicken.

Main benefit and key features

A 60 g pack, a crunchy texture, 28% crude protein and no traces of artificial colourings or preservatives, according to the product details.

Recommended for : Premium treat enthusiasts
MJAMJAM Cat Treats Chicken 125g

MjAMjAM chicken treats for cats – 125 g

Why this choice suits this profile : This recipe is aimed at owners who prioritise an ingredient list centred largely on meat and are looking for a treat without cereals or added sugars.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients list states 55% chicken and specifies that the treat should account for no more than 10% of the daily food intake.

Main benefit and key features

A single-protein chicken recipe, free from cereals, with 33% crude protein. The 125 g pouch is easy to store and takes up little space.

Recommended for : Specific uses and frequent treat-givers
INABA Churu Cat Treats Multi-Flavor Pack

Inaba Churu for cats, assorted flavours, chicken – 20 sticks

Why this choice suits this profile : Lickable cat treats in sticks are handy for reward sessions, mixed into wet food or offered to cats that prefer creamy textures.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Each portion is individually packed, and the product details generally recommend 1 to 2 sticks per day for an adult cat. Once opened, the product should be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours.

Main benefit and key features

Declared moisture of 91%, tuna recipes and an assortment of seafood flavours. The packaging makes it easy to portion out rewards.

Recommended for : Varied daily routines
VITAKRAFT Cat Liquid Snack Chicken 90g

Vitakraft chicken liquid snack for cats – 90 g

Why this choice suits this profile : This liquid format can be served on its own or mixed with dry food, making it particularly versatile for everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly state that this is a complementary food, with 85% moisture. Once opened, the portion can be kept in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours.

Main benefit and key features

Convenient portions, a chicken recipe with taurine and the option to serve the product as a reward or alongside a meal.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated selection of products that meet these exacting criteria and European safety requirements.

Everyday feeding tips

  • Set a maximum daily quantity before you start giving out treats.
  • If necessary, deduct their calories from the main daily ration.
  • Always make sure clean, fresh water is available.
  • Introduce any new recipe gradually if your cat has a sensitive digestive system.
  • Seal dry pouches carefully and follow the recommended consumption period after opening.
  • Do not let your cat chew on the packaging of sticks or liquid portions.

Cat treat FAQs

How many treats can you give a cat each day?

It depends on the product, your cat’s weight and its activity level. Follow the guidance on the packaging and make sure treats remain only a limited part of your cat’s daily diet. Recommended quantities can vary considerably between a dry treat, a liquid stick and a soft bite.

Are liquid cat treats suitable for all cats?

They may be suitable for many cats, but they remain complementary foods. Check their ingredients, whether they contain any thickeners and the storage instructions. An opened portion should generally be consumed quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours depending on the product.

Can you give kitten treats to an adult cat?

This depends on the ingredients and the manufacturer’s instructions. A treat designed for kittens may also be suitable for an adult cat if the label says so. Conversely, a product intended for adult cats should not be given to a young cat without checking the recommended age.